Few of us grew up with the faithful family pig that
inspired us to get one of our own when we were grown. Our love for this
unique critter was cultivated not by a childhood pal but by a special
pig that more often than not landed in our laps by accident or a chance
encounter. Some might call if fate.

Through this first little pig that found a way into our hearts and
home, many of us came to love and appreciate all pigs. Many times that
special first pig soon found itself sharing their home and human family
with many other pigs. Not because more pigs were needed but because
more pigs were needing and there was nowhere else for them to turn.

It was through the love inspired by that first exceptional pig that
gave so many others a chance at life that they otherwise would not have
had. A domino effect was created and the lives of countless pigs and
people were changed. Some of these new pig parents found themselves
with sanctuaries, others offering help and advise to pigs and pig people
in need, some were driven to rescue the most desperate, and many others
generously give of their hard earned resources and time. A chosen few
find themselves doing it all. Most can trace the beginnings of this
calling to a single pig.

Many of these “first pigs” gave up being the sole recipient of the
love that they had searched for. Precious time that would have been
spent with them had to shared. This is to honor one of those special
pigs that was sent where he was needed most. This pig that made such
a difference in the heart of the woman that loved him that she could
never ignore the plight of the rest. All who needed sanctuary found
it with her and her Willy at Hearts On Noses.

Thank you, Willy and Janice for helping us all to remember those
special first pigs in our lives: the ones who will always live on in
our hearts. To remind us not to let them go overlooked when we are pulled
in so many directions. We all owe them a special debt. The price is
almost unbearable when the time comes to say Good-Bye. But we look at
those that are left; living their lives in peace and comfort and safety
and know that it is worth it. They are the ultimate tribute to Willy
and all those like him.